Full disclosure: We sell on Amazon, Best Buy and Walmart marketplaces - we even have a few listings on eBay. If we didn't, we'd have gone the way of the dodo a long time ago. So why am I am trying to steer you clear of those sites? We have several reasons why we encourage customers to explore alternatives. These range from exorbitant vendor fees (that we prefer not to burden you with) to the impersonal, loyalty-lacking relationships between customers and retailers on those platforms.

But this isn't about EFLC.ca, this article is actually about you.  Are you part of the 40% that buy from e-commerce giants without giving it a second thought? But if you are, aren't you also a smart shopper? You know where to look, right? EFLC.ca and other microenterprises in the Canadian, small and medium-sized consumer electronics retail business, have fought for your business over the years in the looming shadow of retail titans while they dismantled department stores, box store retail and the dying shopping mall.  And although we might humbly duke it out for individual sales with our competition, what really helps us is the when people decide to take a chance with any small retailer. Every order tips the balance a tiny tiny bit.

Lets hear it from the little guy

I'm going to try to explain some of the reasons to give us, or our competition, a try and maybe close that handy (often preinstalled app) on your phone. 

1. Tailored DEALS and Pricing

Alright, here we go. These types of small businesses often offer personalized pricing and price protection, making sure you get the best bang for your buck. Normally, if you call, chat or email them, someone will talk to you! They tailor their deals just for you, making sure you don’t break the bank. They can even walk you through a sale right over the phone! 

The truth is, we know that once you're a customer, there's a very high chance you'll keep on being a customer. At least in our small part of the web.  We like healthy competition and welcome competitive shopping. 

2. Personalized Service: Pre and Post Sale Price Protection

You got questions? They got answers. These folks provide top-notch customer service. They know their stuff before you even ask. From pre-sale inquiries to post-sale support, they guide you every step of the way. It’s like having a personal shopping assistant, right in your pocket.  Did the price drop? Try getting price protection from Amazon.. you won't. Yeah, you can send it back for a no-question refund and then buy it again. We've all done it.  But small companies are happy to run you a partial refund to keep things on the down and down.

3. Supporting tHE cANADIAN AND Local Economy

We gotta take care of our own, you know what I mean? Buying from these small companies pumps life into the economy that directly benefits all of us. It creates jobs, keeps the money flowing in the community. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.

4. Unique Products and Exclusivity

Ever heard of hidden treasures? Well, these small businesses are full of them! They specialize in unique, exclusive products you won’t find anywhere else. You may not realize this, but some suppliers are even happy to keep their products OFF of the major vendor sites like Amazon. Small companies keep it special, keeping you coming back for more.

5. Community Connection

You're not just a customer to them, you’re family. These net-niche enterprises are rooted deep in their communities, creating a sense of belonging. For example, EFLC has been selling online for over twenty years, but did you know that we were in business for ten years before that, operating as store in a mall?  Incredibly, we have many customers that have been with us for all three decades and literally thousands that have stood buy us for nearly 20 years. When you make a purchase from a small guy, it’s more than just a transaction; it’s a connection, a bond that goes beyond the screen that can last a long long time.

6. Flexibility, Customization, and Faster Response Time

Need something specific? These guys can make it happen. They’re flexible, they customize products based on what you want. Special orders, preorders and product sourcing are just a start.  You'll find that installers and wholesalers aren't shopping on an app either, they're with, guess who? Yes the little guys!  And when you reach out, they don’t make you wait. Quick responses, no runarounds. That’s the way they all roll.

7. Quality Over Quantity

Listen, these cyber small businesses are not about mass marketing and one-size-fits-all solutions. They’re about quality goods, small production runs, amd attention to detail. When you buy from them, you know you’re gettin' the good stuff. And don't forget about warranty service.  We're here to help make the right connection if you do need help months down the road.  

8. Encouraging Entrepreneurship and Innovation

Supporting these small businesses? It’s like giving a nod to the underdogs, the innovators. It fuels entrepreneurship, keeps the market fresh and exciting. You're part of something big, my friend, something that’s changing the game.

9. Gratitude and Appreciation

You ever dealt with someone who genuinely appreciates your business? We do. Microenterprises are not some faceless corporation; they’re real people who value your choice. You can feel it in every interaction. It’s genuine, and it makes the whole shopping experience a whole lot sweeter.

Navigating the Pitfalls: Company Reviews and Confirmation Bias

Hold on, there’s one more thing you gotta know. See, while these small businesses are like hidden treasures, you gotta watch out for the traps, too. Online reviews, my friend, they can be deceiving. Beware of confirmation bias and extreme opinions.  They sometimes can drown out the real deal. Like our friends within our competitive sphere, we've noticed lately an uptick in fast a furious testimonials out there. 

Let me share a couple of recent instances that come to mind. We had a customer who placed a pre-order with us. Unfortunately, due to a pricing error on another website, he became anxious and decided to vent his frustration on us. It’s a common situation, one we’ve grown accustomed to, yet it still stings. Another customer wasn't pleased with our response in the chat window when he attempted to return an item he had purchased elsewhere. Surprisingly, he left us a one-star review on Google. Quite perplexing, especially considering he hadn't even made the purchase from us.

We certainly receive our fair share of negative reviews, and we see them as opportunities to improve and recalibrate. Each critique guides us to refine our practices, ensuring we stay on track. We take every complaint seriously; they've often been instrumental in shaping our internal processes. However, here's the secret sauce: pay attention to the positive reviews too. They constitute over 99% of our feedback (yes, you read that right; algorithms don't always follow common sense). Focusing on these glowing testimonials provides the genuine insight into our products and services that you need.

To Sum It Up

So, there you have it! Embracing the world of small and medium-sized consumer electronics companies isn’t just about scoring awesome gadgets. It’s about more. It’s about enhancing your shopping experience, boosting local economies, and building a community. These businesses offer a personal touch, unique products, and a genuine connection you won’t find in the big retail jungle. Armed with the knowledge of their advantages and the wisdom to navigate tricky online reviews, you’re all set for a shopping journey that’s not just satisfying but downright enriching. Happy shopping, my friend, wherever you may buy! You got this!

By Lou A.
The dynamic Wholesale Sales Manager at EFLC.ca, overseeing one third of accounts. With a remarkable 15-year journey at the company, and 30 years in the biz, Lou is your go-to person when you reach out. Brace yourself – he talks fast and passionately, ensuring every conversation is filled with expertise and enthusiasm.